Can you put cucumber in Caprese salad?

Yes, cucumber fits perfectly! It adds crunch and freshness without changing the classic flavor balance.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making Caprese salad?

Avoid overdressing or letting the salad sit too long before serving. Too much vinegar or moisture can soften the cucumbers.

What are the ingredients of Caprese salad?

Traditionally, it includes tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. This version adds cucumber for texture.

What to eat with cucumber Caprese salad?

It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, crusty bread, or even a Simple Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad for a complete lunch combo.

Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad | Simple No-Cook Lunch Idea

Name: Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad | Simple No-Cook Lunch Idea
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon dried basil or 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Pinch of salt; Pinch of pepper; 1 cucumber, peeled if preferred and chopped; 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, quartered; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, torn or chopped, or use pearl mozzarella; Optional finely chopped red onion; Optional fresh basil leaves for garnish

Description

This Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad is crisp, juicy, and creamy—all in one bowl. Made with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and herbs, it’s the perfect no-cook lunch that comes together in 10–15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon dried basil or 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

1 tablespoon dried oregano

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Pinch of salt

Pinch of pepper

1 cucumber, peeled if preferred and chopped

1½ cups cherry tomatoes, quartered

8 ounces fresh mozzarella, torn or chopped, or use pearl mozzarella

Optional finely chopped red onion

Optional fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Instructions

1. Combine basil, oregano, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to make the dressing.

2. Chop the cucumber and place it in a mixing bowl.

3. Add tomatoes and optional red onion to the cucumber.

4. Add mozzarella pieces to the bowl.

5. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until combined.

6. Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.

Notes

English or Persian cucumbers are preferred; peel and remove seeds from regular cucumbers if needed.

If using whole mozzarella, cut into small pieces for even mixing.

Adjust the oil and vinegar ratio based on personal taste.

Add the dressing just before serving to maintain cucumber texture.

If moisture is a concern, salt and drain cucumbers before mixing.

Takes about 10–15 minutes to prepare; no cooking required.

Best enjoyed the same day but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Dressing can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Lunch
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 250
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 40mg